The Paraffin Pixies Search for Santa

It’s been a strange year for us all…..
… and even dear old Santa has been a bit flummoxed by all the odd things that have been happening. He’s way behind in his preparations for Christmas, so is far too busy to meet his young friends before the big day. He’s a bit sad about this. It’s something that he really enjoys, and he doesn’t like to disappoint people.

Paraffin Pixies to the rescue
Our old friends the Paraffin Pixies are here to help. The happy little creatures, who live inside old paraffin heaters, have expert knowledge of the secret ways through the woods that lead to Santa’s workshop.

The Pixies will be your guide on a journey along magical illuminated trails that wind among the trees and fields. In the dark of a winter evening, you’ll encounter fantastical sights and spectacular lights. Within this world of wonder, you’ll see preparations being made for the best Christmas ever. You may bump into some of Santa’s helpers, and meet his faithful reindeer. You might even catch a glimpse of the dear old chap himself as his happy team work through the night to prepare for a perfect Christmas day.

Awesome lights and sounds will also transform our giant covered play-space into a winter dreamland, while the big spaces of the orchard barn will be filled with twinkling lights, tasty delights and happy Christmas cheer, ensuring that the fun goes on no matter the weather.

The practical stuff
The Paraffin Pixies’ Search for Santa is a special event within the Almond Valley Heritage Centre that takes place after dark on certain dates during December. Prior booking is essential, as tickets will not be available on the door. Standard day tickets and season tickets to Almond Valley will not be valid, and only certain areas of the site will be accessible.

Who is the event for?
It’s for everyone who retains a sense of wonder, magic and imagination, no matter their age. It’s an experience that all the family can share and enjoy. Paraffin pixies are gentle, friendly folk, so there will be no shocks, sounds or spectacles that might disturb younger children.

Is it Christmassy ?
Yes! Paraffin pixies bring sparkle and magic to dark winter evenings, and lead you to a hidden after-dark world of wonder and mysteries. There will be lights, beauty and wondrous seasonal adventure, without things being too glitzy and commercial.

What will we see and do?
Many tiny, twinkling lights will guide your way past the old mill buildings and through a tunnel of light across the river to our lands in Charlesfield. Pools of light and strings of lanterns will illuminate your way through the orchard to the giant barn filled with Christmas sparkle and festive nibbles. At the heart of it all is the Paraffin Works, our huge covered play-space, which will be alive with the sound and light of a seasonal dreamscape. Emerging from this, the Paraffin Pixies have laid a trail of shimmering delicate fairy lights that will guide you along winding woodland paths. On your journey you will encounter beautiful and awesome arrays of light among the trees, and discover woodland places where toys are made. You’ll meet some of Santa’s reindeer, and may even get a glimpse of the man himself, working hard to prepare for a brilliant Christmas.

Will other parts of Almond Valley be closed?
For your safety, and for the welfare of our animals, you will be restricted to the illuminated route, with no access to the farm areas of the site. There will be hot drinks and nibbles available in the orchard kiosk, but the tearoom will be closed, other than for pre-booked meals

Will I see Santa? will I get a present?
Close-up one-to-one encounters with Santa just aren’t safe and sensible in these difficult times. Santa will be there to wave, smile and ho-ho-ho, but the sort of intimate discussions that normally take place in Santa’s cottage will just not be possible. The only present that you will receive will be warm and happy memories

How long will it take?
You will book for a specific arrival time between 15.00 and 19.15 so as to minimise queues and congestion, and to ensure social distancing. Please try to adhere to this. The route around the site will take about 60 minutes, depending on how energetic you are, although you might want to stay longer if you choose to eat or play. The site will close at 20.30.

Do I need to book?
Prior booking is essential. Booking confirmation, either printed out or displayed on your phone, is required for admission.

Can I change or cancel my booking?
Ticket bookings for the event are non-transferable and non-refundable within seven days of your visit. If we are forced to cancel the event on any day on grounds of safety, due to extreme weather or government restrictions, we will provide as much notice of this as possible, and refund the cost of your tickets.